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Many people shop at Costco regularly and use their memberships to load their fridges and pantries with food and supplies. If you have a Costco membership, there are probably a number of items you buy consistently, whether it’s toilet paper, soap, milk, or eggs. But you should know that a few savvy moves on your part could help you save money on the things you buy all the time. Here’s how to eke out savings on your typical Costco haul.
1. Buy in stores instead of online
Costco.com may be a convenient alternative to visiting your local Costco store, especially if you’re someone with little patience for crowds. But Costco’s prices are almost always less expensive when you buy your groceries and household essentials in person. So rather than fill an online shopping cart, fill a physical one.
If crowds are an issue for you, aim to visit Costco at off-peak times. That usually means doing your shopping during the week instead of on weekends.
2. Stock up during sales
Costco’s regular inventory goes on sale at different intervals. The next time you get your monthly Costco deal book, read through it. Then, hit the store and stock up on items you use all the time that have staying power. If your favorite brand of paper towels is available for $5 off the usual price and you usually go through several rolls a week, buy two mega-packs instead of one if you have a place to store them.
3. Buy Kirkland products instead of name-brand items
Kirkland is Costco’s signature brand, and you’ll find it on everything from clothing to baked goods. You may be inclined to stick to the brands you know and love when it comes to things like food, household cleaners, and laundry detergent. But buying the Kirkland version will often mean spending less.
Case in point: Kirkland Signature Ultra Clean Free & Clear HE Liquid Laundry Detergent costs $19.99 online for 194 fluid ounces, or $0.14 per ounce. Right now, Costco.com has Tide Ultra Concentrated Liquid Laundry Detergent on sale for $5 off of its usual price. Even so, it’s $24.99 for 170 fluid ounces, or $0.17 per ounce.
4. Upgrade to an Executive membership
An Executive membership at Costco costs $120 a year, versus $60 for a basic membership. But an Executive membership also gives you 2% cash back on your purchases. If you shop at Costco very often, you may find that the higher-priced membership results in more savings on your purchases because you’re getting money back each time you go.
As an example, let’s say you spend $100 a week at Costco on staple items. With an Executive membership, you’re getting $2 back each trip, or $104 back in total for the year. The upgrade to the Executive membership only costs $60, so you’re gaining $44 in this example.
5. Track prices and ask for adjustments when applicable
The cost of a given Costco item can change from one week to the next. It’s a good idea to keep tabs on prices, because Costco will give you a price adjustment if something you’ve purchased goes on sale within 30 days. All you need to do is visit customer service and ask. And for online orders, you can request a price adjustment online.
Saving more money at Costco could work wonders for your personal finances. Employ these tips so you’re able to load up on the things you need while spending less money in the process.
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The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
